A planned United Nations / Commonwealth trip to Fiji later this month has been postponed because of the flooding.
The joint mission was to be in Fiji from January the 19th to the 23rd as part of international efforts to help the country return to democracy following the 2006 military coup.
In a statement, the UN says at the interim government's request and due to the gravity of the humanitarian situation caused by the floods, the UN-Commonwealth Technical Team's visit has been delayed.
It says the UN and the Commonwealth are in consultation on new dates for the visit, which should take place as soon as feasible in order to expedite the start of the proposed political dialogue under United Nations and Commonwealth mediation.
The United Nations is deeply concerned at the loss of life, displacement and serious damage to property caused by the floods and expresses its condolences to the government and people of Fiji.
